Fatal claims & Inquests

When a loved one dies it is difficult to see past the immediate grief. However if you believe the death arose from someone else’s negligence, or if a Coroner is holding an inquest, then you you may benefit from specialist legal advice to guide you through the process.

We act for bereaved families in all types of claim where the death occurred through substandard medical care and we will fully investigate the care that was provided and identify what went wrong.

If the Coroner chooses to hold an inquest in to the circumstances of the death then we can provide representation at the hearing, so you have someone on your behalf to press for the answers you need and to establish exactly what happened to your loved one. We can then advise you on bringing a claim upon the conclusion of the inquest.

How we can help

The Clinical Negligence Team has substantial experience in representing families at inquests, with Ali Cloak and Judith Leach having a particular specialism in such cases. We can advise as to whether you would benefit from specialist representation at an inquest. Even if there isn’t going to be an inquest we can still investigate what went wrong and explore whether your loved one died because of substandard medical treatment.

After you first make contact, we will then:

Listen to your concerns and clearly explain the steps to be taken in your case

Explore the best way of funding your claim

Advise on the best way to pursue a claim

Support you throughout the entire process

At the Clinical Negligence Team, we understand that you will be going through a particularly distressing time in your life. To make your claim as easy as possible our team of experienced specialists will guide you through the process with sensitivity and professionalism.

We seek to provide a high level of support and guidance throughout the process.

FAQs

Can I investigate substandard treatment if there wasn’t an inquest?

Yes. If you believe that the care afforded to your loved one was substandard then we will investigate this for you, regardless of whether an inquest was held. Your entitlement to compensation is not affected. Please get in touch to discuss your case.

What is the purpose of an inquest?

The purpose of an inquest is to establish the facts and reach a conclusion as to the cause of death. An inquest is held if the cause of death is not known, or if the death has occurred in concerning circumstances.

Do I need a lawyer to represent me in an inquest?

In all but the most straightforward of inquests we would recommend having legal representation on your behalf. Inquest procedure can be very complex. A specialist lawyer can guide you through the process, so you are making informed choices.

Furthermore, the other parties at the inquest will invariably have specialist legal representation there acting for them and so the family can be at a disadvantage if they try to represent themselves. The inquest hearing is often the final chance for questions to be put to those involved and so it is important that it is done properly. We recommend contacting a specialist solicitor who can advise you fully on how they can help you during this difficult time.

Am I entitled to claim for compensation?

If your relative’s death was caused by substandard treatment, then you will be entitled to claim for compensation.

The types compensation which can be claimed in relation to fatal claims are varied and complex, hence it is very important that you consult with a specialist solicitor. Your solicitor will be able to advise you as to whether you have a right to bring a claim for negligence and which losses you can expect to recover.

What sort of compensation might I receive?

The amount of compensation will be dependent on many things, such as the level of income the deceased was bringing into the household and whether you have children. The level of compensation will be very specific to your case and we will work closely with you to ensure we recover the highest award for you.

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